THE MIRROR EFFECT

Review #4 This album is special in more ways than one. On the one hand, it is my first Portuguese band to listen to. On the other hand, we are dealing with a highly interesting release, which I would now like to go into more detail. The music on "The Mirror Effect" can be described as a mixture of symphonic prog with jazz elements and psychedelic excursions. There are linear pieces that are easy to grasp, but also jam-like passages as well as complex song structures that open up only after repeated listening. Thus, this album has a natural demand on the listener - something I personally like very much, because the music is not consumed quickly, but must grow. The contrasts on the first album of the six Portuguese are particularly appealing. Warm, relaxed sections alternate with wild instrumental passages and the songs develop their very own identity. Particularly noteworthy here would be, for example, the third song "Return To OM". A long track that shows the band's range of skills (and is even sung in several languages). At this point, the vocal talent of singer Sara Freitas should be mentioned, who manages with her voice to present hymn-like melodies and powerful lines most impressively. And while you are well settled in one section of the song, "Artnat" comes around the corner with a twist and let the song continue in an unpredictable direction. The versatile sounds of Gui da Luz and André Hencleeday on the keys are especially noticeable here, which in combination with the guitar work of Manuel Cardoso always create a charming interplay.

"The Mirror Effect" is an impressive and above all independent debut, which cannot be easily pigeonholed. The music surprises, challenges the listener at the same time and can cross many borders thanks to the high musicality and the creativity that comes with it, from which the album benefits sustainably. And while I'm listening to the penultimate song "The Dramatic Beauty Of Live", I'm sure that the band can continue to increase its potential in the future. I am very excited!